Saudi Arabia: The Prime Location for Trump’s Upcoming Talks with Ukraine

Reuters – Senator Marco Rubio’s visit to Saudi Arabia marks a revival of warm relations between the United States and the Kingdom, reminiscent of the rapport they enjoyed during President Donald Trump’s first term.

The choice by the Trump administration to hold key talks on Ukraine in Riyadh underscores how far Saudi Arabia has come diplomatically since it was nearly ostracized following journalist Jamal Khashoggi’s murder in 2018. While concerns about human rights continue to be raised at international forums, particularly regarding Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the diplomatic tension seems to have dissipated.

In entertainment and sport sectors, Saudi Arabia has invested heavily to project itself as a significant player on the global stage. In diplomacy too, Saudi leadership is asserting its influence more robustly. Under President Joe Biden’s administration, Saudi Arabia has increased its strategic diversification away from exclusive reliance on the US for international alliances.

The Saudis have clearly indicated that they will prioritize their own interests first and forge closer ties with nations viewed as rivals to the US, such as Russia and China. The return of Donald Trump to power would likely be met favorably by Saudi Arabia, considering his transactional approach in foreign policy C similar to what initially characterized the Trump administration.

One of President Trump’s major diplomatic achievements he would like on his record is a peace agreement between Saudi Arabia and Israela goal set forth through the Abraham Accords. However, this ambition has been hindered by ongoing conflict in Gaza. The Saudis’ swift rejection of Mr. Trumps plan to evacuate all Palestinians from Gaza and rebuild it as a resort highlights their determination to find an alternative solution.

Instead, Saudi Arabia is seeking a cooperative framework with other Arab states that would keep Gazans in place while rebuilding the enclave, eventually leading to a two-state settlement. This approach seems at odds with current US policy towards both Gaza and the occupied West Bank under President Bidens administration.

The resolution of this conflict will be critical in shaping future dynamics between Saudi Arabia and the United States. It is evident that Saudi Arabia remains committed to its ambition of becoming a key player in global diplomacy, regardless of changes in leadership elsewhere.